Nice review, I enjoyed reading it. And the question remains: Is there a horizon for 80 proofers... I tend to think there is. I've had some very good 80 proofers along the way (decades). I. W Harper being one of the best, and also some decent Gentlemen Jack (sketchy) and Basil Hayden. It's a coin toss... 50/50. BB

thanks for the positive comment and, yes, i admit that i WANT to find a reason to like the 80 proofers...and i wonder, though, is it possibe to have a great 80 proof bourbon or even rye whiskey? it seems to work fine for the spirits of ireland and scotland...but is the nature of bourbon and rye that they are best when at 90+ proof....and even better after that? sometimes, yes, i like a smooth, straight forward pour ... a challenge of 101 and above isn't always needed!

i agree, the GJack is a fine, high quality pour. basil hayden's, too.

"Whiskey is by far the most popular of all remedies that won't cure a cold." Jerry Vale

BuffaloBill wrote:I tend to like 94 and up. After 122 we're getting heady with the need for good spring water and the knowledge of proofing. There are other guys on BE that have that down to a science. BB

i think i am really loving this new Handy Sazerac since it is at a sippable (no ice or water needed) 127+ proof...but yes, after that, something might be needed to open it up. yes, 94 (elijah craig) is a great balance of body, complexity and heat.

"Whiskey is by far the most popular of all remedies that won't cure a cold." Jerry Vale